Radia and US DOD partner to explore WindRunner for oversize cargo
The partnership is to assess the potential of using WindRunner oversize cargo aircraft for military logistics
Radia, the aerospace innovator behind the WindRunner, the world’s largest high-volume cargo aircraft, has entered into a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement with the United States Department of Defense (DoD). This partnership, developed alongside U.S. Transportation Command, aims to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of the WindRunner as a commercial option to support national defense logistics, while also addressing needs within the broader civil and military oversized cargo market.
With a length of 356 feet and a wingspan of 261 feet, the WindRunner offers an internal cargo volume twelve times that of a Boeing 747. It is specifically designed to operate in remote locations by landing on short and unpaved runways—unlocking access to regions where traditional aircraft cannot operate. The research initiative will examine the aircraft’s ability to carry oversized and mission-critical cargo, such as space launch components, military equipment, and humanitarian supplies, while also exploring how the aircraft can operate efficiently at various types of airfields and integrate into existing transportation infrastructure.
The partnership will also focus on simulating various real-world mission scenarios to determine how the WindRunner performs under different operational demands. From remote deployments and disaster relief to strategic military logistics, the collaboration seeks to understand how this groundbreaking aircraft can contribute to national readiness and mobility. Additionally, researchers will explore how the WindRunner could complement existing military logistics networks, including potential inclusion in contingency programs like the Civil Reserve Air Fleet.
To further support its expansion into defense applications, Radia has announced two high-profile appointments. General Mike Minihan, United States Air Force (Retired), has joined the company as a strategic advisor. With a distinguished career in military aviation and operations, General Minihan brings critical insight to help position the WindRunner within global defense strategies. Additionally, Major General Kenneth “Thad” Bibb, Jr., United States Air Force (Retired), has been appointed as Vice President of Business Development for Defense. His decades of leadership in logistics and air mobility will play a pivotal role as Radia builds its presence in both domestic and international defense markets.
Mark Lundstrom, Founder and CEO of Radia, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “The WindRunner allows the world’s biggest things to be delivered to the hardest-to-reach locations. This agreement demonstrates how commercial aviation can support national security by aligning innovative technologies with defense priorities. With experienced leaders like General Minihan and General Bibb joining our team, we are ready to help reshape the future of cargo transport.”
The insights gained from this cooperative research will help inform future planning and strategy around dual-use aviation assets, strengthening the connection between commercial innovation and national defense capabilities.
